Abu Dhabi: Scores of families have been living without electricity and water for over two months as their landlord has failed to pay the utility bills of their apartment complex near Al Forsan roundabout in Khalifa City A. Though some tenants have moved out, many are staying put as they have paid an entire year’s rent in advance.
Trapped
“We are trapped and there is nothing much we can do about it,” said an Arab tenant, who has paid Dh28,000 in cash and also given a post-dated cheque for the same amount to his landlord for his one-bedroom apartment.
“Now either I lose all my money or fight it out here in these appalling conditions,” he said. The apartment complex in Khalifa City A consists of four new three-storey buildings, each with around 20 apartments of varying sizes.
Tenants told XPRESS their power supply was snapped by Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADCC) early December because the landlord has not paid electricity bills amounting to Dh120,000.
“We came to know through property agents that the landlord has not paid the outstanding amount. He has pocketed our rents but hasn’t bothered to restore the power in the building,” said another angry tenant who also refused to be named.
Some residents said they are forced to buy water and use candles to go about their daily routine. “I don’t know long we can continue like this. I am at my wit’s end now,” said an Indian tenant.
XPRESS could not contact the landlord despite several attempts. The real estate agent refused to speak.
“We are caught between the devil and the deep sea. How can we forego our money and find another accommodation?” said a South African resident. “I took the apartment so that my wife could join me for our wedding anniversary last December. But we have not lived here in peace even for a day,” said the man.
“The first week itself, we had to move to a hotel. When we came back there was a municipality notice saying the power will be disconnected again.”
With the situation not improving, the tenant said he is considering moving out. “I’ve hardly lived here for two months though I have paid six months rents in advance. Now I am looking for alternatives,” he said.
Many tenants said they are also considering legal action to get their money back from the landlord.
